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Winterspell #2
Heart of the Summer Queen
"Last night, I tried to kill my husband. And I failed."
The stunning sequel to Bride of the Winter King, this is Beauty and the Beast meets the Snow Queen in an epic enemies-to-lovers fantasy romance.
For three long years, Adara has plotted her revenge against the cruel Winter King who stole her sister. But on their wedding night, the dagger hidden beneath her gown failed to pierce his icy heart. Now trapped as his unwilling queen, the Crystal Palace’s glittering walls have become Adara’s bleak cage.
Realizing neither blade nor poison can slay an immortal like the Winter King, Adara vows to escape. Yet Elaric is there to thwart her every attempt, refusing to release his bloodthirsty bride.
But she soon discovers there’s more to her sister's mysterious end than she ever imagined. Her relentless pursuit of answers draws them far from the Winter King’s frozen halls and into perilous lands filled with terrifying magic. Ancient secrets and powerful witches weave a treacherous web around the reluctant newlyweds. And despite the bitter chill between them, an undeniable fire smolders.
To unveil her sister's fate, Adara and Elaric must stand together. But will unraveling the truth reignite extinguished flames? Or will it smother them to ashes?
The stunning sequel to Bride of the Winter King, this is Beauty and the Beast meets the Snow Queen in an epic enemies-to-lovers fantasy romance.
For three long years, Adara has plotted her revenge against the cruel Winter King who stole her sister. But on their wedding night, the dagger hidden beneath her gown failed to pierce his icy heart. Now trapped as his unwilling queen, the Crystal Palace’s glittering walls have become Adara’s bleak cage.
Realizing neither blade nor poison can slay an immortal like the Winter King, Adara vows to escape. Yet Elaric is there to thwart her every attempt, refusing to release his bloodthirsty bride.
But she soon discovers there’s more to her sister's mysterious end than she ever imagined. Her relentless pursuit of answers draws them far from the Winter King’s frozen halls and into perilous lands filled with terrifying magic. Ancient secrets and powerful witches weave a treacherous web around the reluctant newlyweds. And despite the bitter chill between them, an undeniable fire smolders.
To unveil her sister's fate, Adara and Elaric must stand together. But will unraveling the truth reignite extinguished flames? Or will it smother them to ashes?
330 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 16, 2024
125 people are currently reading
225 people want to read
About the author
Holly Rose
4 books211 followersHolly Rose has been obsessed with high fantasy since the age of 5, when she first watched The Fellowship of the Ring (her parents raised her right). After realizing she couldn’t become an elf, she decided to start writing about them instead. She also grew up on World of Warcraft and copious amounts of anime.
She was born and bred in Wales, United Kingdom, where she currently spends her days terrorizing teenagers with mathematical equations (and sometimes teaching them useful things). When she gets home from school, her real work with writing about magic and mayhem can begin.
She was born and bred in Wales, United Kingdom, where she currently spends her days terrorizing teenagers with mathematical equations (and sometimes teaching them useful things). When she gets home from school, her real work with writing about magic and mayhem can begin.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
January 28, 2025
So amazing, Holly Rose never fails!!
February 4, 2024
This was the PERFECT ending to this wonderful duology!
The action and adventure kept me on the edge of my seat and had me devouring this arc in two days.🤭
I really enjoyed seeing more of Elaric and his past. Adara was even more incredible in this book than the first one. She is just everything.🧡
The slow burn between her and Elaric was so well written! I love it when a book has both slow burn and enemies to lovers in it.🔥
I definitely recommend reading this phenomenal duology. Elaric will become your new book boyfriend and Adara your new favourite FMC!🫶🏻
The action and adventure kept me on the edge of my seat and had me devouring this arc in two days.🤭
I really enjoyed seeing more of Elaric and his past. Adara was even more incredible in this book than the first one. She is just everything.🧡
The slow burn between her and Elaric was so well written! I love it when a book has both slow burn and enemies to lovers in it.🔥
I definitely recommend reading this phenomenal duology. Elaric will become your new book boyfriend and Adara your new favourite FMC!🫶🏻
January 23, 2024
I’m not gonna lie, I haven’t devoured a book this fast in a while. If you have been following me you’ll know that the first instalment of this duology ‘Bride of the winter King’ was one of my favourite reads last year and I was beyond excited to get an ARC copy of this from @hollyrosebooks 🙌
This was the perfect ending to an AMAZING story with just the right amount of angst, fluff and spice 😍 I had me heart in my throat a few times and I’m not gonna lie I was worried that things weren’t gonna work out but then……(nope! Not spoiling it, you’ll just have to go and read it 😜)
Holly has created this beautiful story with amazing world building and lovable characters that literally sinks its teeth into you right from the start. This story was one I couldn’t stop thinking about last year and I’m so so happy that she knocked it out of the park with book two. Read if you love
🌼Enemies to Lovers
🌼One bed
🌼Touch her and 🗡️
🌼Betrayals
🌼Beauty and the beast inspired story
🌼Winter king (I mean who doesn’t 🙊)
🌼Strong FMC
🌼Banter
🌼Spice
This was the perfect ending to an AMAZING story with just the right amount of angst, fluff and spice 😍 I had me heart in my throat a few times and I’m not gonna lie I was worried that things weren’t gonna work out but then……(nope! Not spoiling it, you’ll just have to go and read it 😜)
Holly has created this beautiful story with amazing world building and lovable characters that literally sinks its teeth into you right from the start. This story was one I couldn’t stop thinking about last year and I’m so so happy that she knocked it out of the park with book two. Read if you love
🌼Enemies to Lovers
🌼One bed
🌼Touch her and 🗡️
🌼Betrayals
🌼Beauty and the beast inspired story
🌼Winter king (I mean who doesn’t 🙊)
🌼Strong FMC
🌼Banter
🌼Spice
August 1, 2024
Bello bello, di questo libro ho adorato tutto. Dalla scoperta iniziale che fa Adara e che quindi la fa attivare per poter liberare sua sorella,al viaggio che intraprendono lei e il Winter King.
Grazie a questo viaggio, usciamo dal palazzo d'inverno e si inizierà ad esplorare il world-building che l'autrice descrive benissimo, aumentando la mia curiosità su questo mondo e sul suo sistema magico. Ci sono anche piccole avventura degne di una fiaba.
Anche il finale è degno di una fiaba e in parte mi ha ricordato quello della Bella e la Bestia, di cui questo libro è retelling. C'è un anche una scena, sempre nel finale, che mi ha commosso, si nota tutta la sofferenza ma anche il sollievo e l'amore.
Voglio aggiungere anche un piccolo pensiero sul rapporto fra Adara e il Winter King. Il libro inizia subito con gli eventi con cui è finito il primo libro e ho adorato la lentezza con cui il loro rapporto riprende pian piano vita, quel viaggio li aiuta molto a far uscire i loro dubbi e sentimenti, confrontandosi riescono a conoscersi meglio.
Duologia super consigliata, l'inglese l'ho trovato abbastanza semplice.
Ps: so che in questa recensione troverete qualche errore e parti scritte in tutta fretta ma, dopo averlo letto, volevo subito farvi sapere cosa ne pensavo. Poi con calma la rileggo e correggo, scusatemi per gli eventuali errori.
Grazie a questo viaggio, usciamo dal palazzo d'inverno e si inizierà ad esplorare il world-building che l'autrice descrive benissimo, aumentando la mia curiosità su questo mondo e sul suo sistema magico. Ci sono anche piccole avventura degne di una fiaba.
Anche il finale è degno di una fiaba e in parte mi ha ricordato quello della Bella e la Bestia, di cui questo libro è retelling. C'è un anche una scena, sempre nel finale, che mi ha commosso, si nota tutta la sofferenza ma anche il sollievo e l'amore.
Voglio aggiungere anche un piccolo pensiero sul rapporto fra Adara e il Winter King. Il libro inizia subito con gli eventi con cui è finito il primo libro e ho adorato la lentezza con cui il loro rapporto riprende pian piano vita, quel viaggio li aiuta molto a far uscire i loro dubbi e sentimenti, confrontandosi riescono a conoscersi meglio.
Duologia super consigliata, l'inglese l'ho trovato abbastanza semplice.
Ps: so che in questa recensione troverete qualche errore e parti scritte in tutta fretta ma, dopo averlo letto, volevo subito farvi sapere cosa ne pensavo. Poi con calma la rileggo e correggo, scusatemi per gli eventuali errori.
February 14, 2024
AHHHHH WHAT!!! This book had me giggling like a school girl! God this was a masterpiece! The character development was phenomenal, I felt like by the end of the book I had already grown so much with the characters. You would think I would get bored by enemies to lover at this point, but Holly writes it so well that it feels like this is the first time I have read this genre. I love how she portrayed the characters conflict and emotions so well, it felt like I was feeling that conflict as well! The world building is so easy to grasp, so I did not feel lost at any point in the book! It reads so well, yet its story is complex. It has been so so long since I have read an enemies to lovers book that did not have any troubling behaviour! Mark my words, Holly will become one of the bestselling authors soon!
February 3, 2024
HOTSQ is the last book in this epic duology, a tale full of adventure, magic, and love. While I loved the first book, the second one was even more gripping! I guess that if I had more time, I would have finished it in two days at the top.
In HOTSQ we learn more about the characters, especially about Ellaric, the Winter King, his past life, and the curse. Adara and Elaric come closer together and go on an epic adventure to solve Elaric’s curse. They survive many perils and fight with beasts and witches in their attempt to find a remedy to the curse. I like both characters; Adara is an overthinker and while her overthinking drove me crazy at times, she is very stubborn, dynamic, brave, and loves her family above all. I admit that I missed a little more of Elaric’s voice in the book to get to know him better, but he cares for Adara and his kingdom and he is powerful without being mean. The witch Belinda angered me, but I guess there’s no perfect ending in any book and people like her exist in real life all the time (𝘢𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘢𝘩𝘦𝘮). Still, her contribution to the story was unexpected, and while she annoyed me, I still enjoyed her dynamic.
In HOTSQ we learn more about the characters, especially about Ellaric, the Winter King, his past life, and the curse. Adara and Elaric come closer together and go on an epic adventure to solve Elaric’s curse. They survive many perils and fight with beasts and witches in their attempt to find a remedy to the curse. I like both characters; Adara is an overthinker and while her overthinking drove me crazy at times, she is very stubborn, dynamic, brave, and loves her family above all. I admit that I missed a little more of Elaric’s voice in the book to get to know him better, but he cares for Adara and his kingdom and he is powerful without being mean. The witch Belinda angered me, but I guess there’s no perfect ending in any book and people like her exist in real life all the time (𝘢𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘢𝘩𝘦𝘮). Still, her contribution to the story was unexpected, and while she annoyed me, I still enjoyed her dynamic.
January 28, 2024
Let me start off by saying how happy I am to be part of the select few, that get to read Holly's books before they're released into the wild. After reading bride of the Winter King, which ended on a huge cliffhanger might I add, I couldn't wait to see how the story would continue.
I'll try not to give anything away!
Heart of the Summer Queen is in my opinion even better than it's predecessor because it has more of everything. The romance was more intense, the emotions were raw and the action packed parts have tripled! Adara is not just another pretty face but proves herself worthy of being called a queen! There's no damsel in distress in this story!
We know it's a Beauty and the Beast-like story so we kind of know what to expect. But even so, the surprising twist and turns have you second-guess the happy ending you are hoping for. If it weren't for life interrupting me, I would have sped through the book so much faster!
After reading multiple thrillers, Heart of the Summer Queen was the feel-good story I was looking for!
I'll try not to give anything away!
Heart of the Summer Queen is in my opinion even better than it's predecessor because it has more of everything. The romance was more intense, the emotions were raw and the action packed parts have tripled! Adara is not just another pretty face but proves herself worthy of being called a queen! There's no damsel in distress in this story!
We know it's a Beauty and the Beast-like story so we kind of know what to expect. But even so, the surprising twist and turns have you second-guess the happy ending you are hoping for. If it weren't for life interrupting me, I would have sped through the book so much faster!
After reading multiple thrillers, Heart of the Summer Queen was the feel-good story I was looking for!
January 24, 2024
I was so happy to dive back into this world, I adored book one and this one was no different. I devoured in two sittings and loved every moment of it. Book two picks up straight where we left.
The story followed really well, the pacing was just right and the characters for me were just everything. Adara & Elaric have the perfect chemistry and I loved seeing them try to come to terms with their relationship now everything is out in the open and also seeing them both learn to trust one another.
It had me going through all the emotions between laughter, happiness and sobbing. There was so much intensity and angst it sucked me straight in.
My first 5 star read of 2024!!
This one has all the best troupes:
🌟 Enemies to Lovers
🌟 Who did this to you
🌟 One Bed
🌟 Touch her and Die
🌟 Strong MC
🌟 He falls first
Thank you so much Holly for send me an ARC copy of this.
I can't wait to see what comes next.
The story followed really well, the pacing was just right and the characters for me were just everything. Adara & Elaric have the perfect chemistry and I loved seeing them try to come to terms with their relationship now everything is out in the open and also seeing them both learn to trust one another.
It had me going through all the emotions between laughter, happiness and sobbing. There was so much intensity and angst it sucked me straight in.
My first 5 star read of 2024!!
This one has all the best troupes:
🌟 Enemies to Lovers
🌟 Who did this to you
🌟 One Bed
🌟 Touch her and Die
🌟 Strong MC
🌟 He falls first
Thank you so much Holly for send me an ARC copy of this.
I can't wait to see what comes next.
January 21, 2024
Review pending.
June 25, 2024
Le avventure di Elaric e Adara riprendono dal loro matrimonio, punto in cui li avevamo lasciati in ”Bride of the Winter King”.
Non vi posso raccontare altro della trama per paura di far spoiler a chi ancora non avesse letto il primo volume e volesse farlo, ma sappiate che non sarà semplice star dietro a tutte le emozioni e situazioni che vi regaleranno i protagonisti nel corso della storia.
La scrittura di Holly Rose vi cattura nelle spire della storia fin dal primo momento senza lasciarvi via di scampo: penserete alla sorte di Elaric e Adara anche quando starete facendo altro, non vedrete l’ora di tornare a leggere la loro storia per scoprirne sempre di più.
Una volta giunti, poi, alla fine vi mancheranno come mai nessun personaggio vi è mancato prima e vorreste aver ancora qualche pagina da leggere per poter condividere altro tempo con queste due persone meravigliose.
Lo stile incalzante ed emozionante dell’autrice si adatta alla vicenda a pennello e la rende un ciclone di sentimenti che vi scombussoleranno gli organi interni, ve li rimescoleranno da dentro e ve li renderanno con una nuova vita: non potrete scampare a questa sorte che – personalmente – trovo meraviglioso vivere in ogni libro che leggo.
I personaggi hanno avuto una crescita incredibile e sono maturati molto tra il primo e il secondo volume, ma anche nel corso della lettura di “Heart of the Summer Queen” noterete un loro cambiamento: potrete seguire le lotte interne di Elaric e Adara scorgendone i pensieri cambiare, crescere con loro e diventre più adulti. Nonostante ciò, vi avviso, vorrete prendere a schiaffi Adara in più di un’occasione ma ricordatevi che si farà perdonare, vi farà ricredere e vi darà modo di apprezzarla, sostenerla e amarla. Elaric, dal canto suo, cercherà di fare quanto di meglio nelle sue possibilità per non farle mancare niente, assecondarla e amarla anche nei momenti in cui lei lo allontana: lo trovo un personaggio molto maturo e saggio, disposto all’infelicità eterna pur di vedere Adara felice e, sicuramente, capace di qualsiasi cosa pur di ridarle quello che le ha tolto – se non si è capito ha un grande pezzetto del mio cuore, è una cosa inevitabile e sicuramente conquisterà anche un pezzetto del vostro.
In conclusione, voglio ringraziare Holly Rose per la copia ARC donatami e per averci regalato questa dilogia strepitosa che merita l’attenzione di tutto il mondo. A voi lettori, dico di non perdervi questa meravigliosa storia che ha tanto da darvi soprattutto se amate il fantasy, le storie coinvolgenti, emozionanti e ben scritte – non ci sono notizie di una sua traduzione ma fatevi un regalo e fate un piccolo sforzo per leggerla in lingua perché merita e l’inglese non l’ho trovato eccessivamente difficile.
Voto: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
EN:
In this second volume, we follow Elaric and Adara after their marriage and we can see how theey go through the obstacles life puts on their path.
Holly Rose’s writing is fluid and it involves you in the story at 360°: you will feel yourself as part of the plot and live the life of the characters without moving from your couch.
Elaric and Adara had an important growth from “Bride of the Winter King” and also durign the reading of “Heart of the Summer Queen”: they both change their mind regarding some meaningful things, their way to face felleings and situations is more adult in this second volume than before. You will love them, learn from them and grow with them.
Non vi posso raccontare altro della trama per paura di far spoiler a chi ancora non avesse letto il primo volume e volesse farlo, ma sappiate che non sarà semplice star dietro a tutte le emozioni e situazioni che vi regaleranno i protagonisti nel corso della storia.
La scrittura di Holly Rose vi cattura nelle spire della storia fin dal primo momento senza lasciarvi via di scampo: penserete alla sorte di Elaric e Adara anche quando starete facendo altro, non vedrete l’ora di tornare a leggere la loro storia per scoprirne sempre di più.
Una volta giunti, poi, alla fine vi mancheranno come mai nessun personaggio vi è mancato prima e vorreste aver ancora qualche pagina da leggere per poter condividere altro tempo con queste due persone meravigliose.
Lo stile incalzante ed emozionante dell’autrice si adatta alla vicenda a pennello e la rende un ciclone di sentimenti che vi scombussoleranno gli organi interni, ve li rimescoleranno da dentro e ve li renderanno con una nuova vita: non potrete scampare a questa sorte che – personalmente – trovo meraviglioso vivere in ogni libro che leggo.
I personaggi hanno avuto una crescita incredibile e sono maturati molto tra il primo e il secondo volume, ma anche nel corso della lettura di “Heart of the Summer Queen” noterete un loro cambiamento: potrete seguire le lotte interne di Elaric e Adara scorgendone i pensieri cambiare, crescere con loro e diventre più adulti. Nonostante ciò, vi avviso, vorrete prendere a schiaffi Adara in più di un’occasione ma ricordatevi che si farà perdonare, vi farà ricredere e vi darà modo di apprezzarla, sostenerla e amarla. Elaric, dal canto suo, cercherà di fare quanto di meglio nelle sue possibilità per non farle mancare niente, assecondarla e amarla anche nei momenti in cui lei lo allontana: lo trovo un personaggio molto maturo e saggio, disposto all’infelicità eterna pur di vedere Adara felice e, sicuramente, capace di qualsiasi cosa pur di ridarle quello che le ha tolto – se non si è capito ha un grande pezzetto del mio cuore, è una cosa inevitabile e sicuramente conquisterà anche un pezzetto del vostro.
In conclusione, voglio ringraziare Holly Rose per la copia ARC donatami e per averci regalato questa dilogia strepitosa che merita l’attenzione di tutto il mondo. A voi lettori, dico di non perdervi questa meravigliosa storia che ha tanto da darvi soprattutto se amate il fantasy, le storie coinvolgenti, emozionanti e ben scritte – non ci sono notizie di una sua traduzione ma fatevi un regalo e fate un piccolo sforzo per leggerla in lingua perché merita e l’inglese non l’ho trovato eccessivamente difficile.
Voto: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
EN:
In this second volume, we follow Elaric and Adara after their marriage and we can see how theey go through the obstacles life puts on their path.
Holly Rose’s writing is fluid and it involves you in the story at 360°: you will feel yourself as part of the plot and live the life of the characters without moving from your couch.
Elaric and Adara had an important growth from “Bride of the Winter King” and also durign the reading of “Heart of the Summer Queen”: they both change their mind regarding some meaningful things, their way to face felleings and situations is more adult in this second volume than before. You will love them, learn from them and grow with them.
February 16, 2024
Heart of the Summer Queen picks straight up after Bride of the Winter King and follows Adara and Elaric on their mission to break the curse that is threatening to harm more girls and leave Elaric and his kingdom in the never-ending cold spell.
This book was an absolutely beauty of a sequel and ending to a duology, this book just had more of everything, and you can truly feel that Holly has put a lot of love and thought into this book, and it has been completely worth the wait. The book is completely fast paced and adventurous with action on every page, the book is full of angst, chemistry, spice, tropes and emotions. Plus, those action scenes, there was so much in all of them; despair, worry, longing and jubilation
The world building is rich and wonderful, and the descriptions really describe just how cold the kingdom is, and I found that Elaric’s reactions to different experiences and seasons was pure amazement, and this really shone through the book. Plus, the magic and magical curse were fantastically described with no room for plot holes!
This book also contains more spice than the last one, but it is elegantly written, the sexual scenes are very well developed with the required building chemistry, tension and angst until you can feel the characters desires rippling through the pages. I love just how respectful both characters are to one another in these moments too, especially Elaric towards Adara, how her consent and level of comfort is his top priority and it’s really refreshing to see this!
I absolutely love that this was not an instalove trope, but that their romance took form of enemies to lovers, to friends to married across the duology, you really felt that their coupling had developed across both books and all their shared experiences, especially the journey they take in this novel, it really helped develop their bond and relationship.
Both characters are just fantastically written, Elaric gives the right amount of brooding with protective caring, whilst Adara is one of the fiercest female main characters I adore, she is just unwavering in her desire to get revenge for her sister, and then save Elaric and the kingdom. Also, that epilogue was the perfect ending requited, I love that Holly didn’t follow the normal romance guide of jumping years ahead with the couple having a huge number of children as a happy ever after!
I cannot find any fault with this book, and BOTWK and HOTSQ are easily my favourite duology, I have read all four of Holly Rose’s books now and cannot wait for number five!
This book was an absolutely beauty of a sequel and ending to a duology, this book just had more of everything, and you can truly feel that Holly has put a lot of love and thought into this book, and it has been completely worth the wait. The book is completely fast paced and adventurous with action on every page, the book is full of angst, chemistry, spice, tropes and emotions. Plus, those action scenes, there was so much in all of them; despair, worry, longing and jubilation
The world building is rich and wonderful, and the descriptions really describe just how cold the kingdom is, and I found that Elaric’s reactions to different experiences and seasons was pure amazement, and this really shone through the book. Plus, the magic and magical curse were fantastically described with no room for plot holes!
This book also contains more spice than the last one, but it is elegantly written, the sexual scenes are very well developed with the required building chemistry, tension and angst until you can feel the characters desires rippling through the pages. I love just how respectful both characters are to one another in these moments too, especially Elaric towards Adara, how her consent and level of comfort is his top priority and it’s really refreshing to see this!
I absolutely love that this was not an instalove trope, but that their romance took form of enemies to lovers, to friends to married across the duology, you really felt that their coupling had developed across both books and all their shared experiences, especially the journey they take in this novel, it really helped develop their bond and relationship.
Both characters are just fantastically written, Elaric gives the right amount of brooding with protective caring, whilst Adara is one of the fiercest female main characters I adore, she is just unwavering in her desire to get revenge for her sister, and then save Elaric and the kingdom. Also, that epilogue was the perfect ending requited, I love that Holly didn’t follow the normal romance guide of jumping years ahead with the couple having a huge number of children as a happy ever after!
I cannot find any fault with this book, and BOTWK and HOTSQ are easily my favourite duology, I have read all four of Holly Rose’s books now and cannot wait for number five!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2024
I received an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
TROPES
🔶 Beauty and the Beast meets Snow White
🔶 Enemies to Lovers
🔶 Touch Her and Die
🔶 Slow Burn
This picks up right where the first book, Bride of the Winter King, leaves off. Adara has just tried to kill her husband, and it didn’t really go how she thought it would. Now the two of them are working together to break the curse that plagues the Winter King also known as Elaric.
While most of the first book takes place in Elaric’s castle of ice, this next book sees the two go on an adventure across the kingdom, from the forests to the seas. It was perfect because I do think the story had outgrown the castle, so it was nice to see how Adara and Elaric interacted outside of their otherwise rigid environment.
There are some great sequences that showcase Adara’s ability to think on her feet and adapt to any situation, and it was fun to watch her continue to grow. She really gives their adventure her all, even if it could end up poorly in the end.
Once the door opens on Adara and Elaric’s relationship, nothing can stop them (even though it takes a hot second for them to be on the same page). Though it started on rocky ground, by the end, they are in a great place and I’m so glad they made it there.
Heart of the Summer Queen is available now on KU! Thank you to the author for a chance to ARC read.
TROPES
🔶 Beauty and the Beast meets Snow White
🔶 Enemies to Lovers
🔶 Touch Her and Die
🔶 Slow Burn
This picks up right where the first book, Bride of the Winter King, leaves off. Adara has just tried to kill her husband, and it didn’t really go how she thought it would. Now the two of them are working together to break the curse that plagues the Winter King also known as Elaric.
While most of the first book takes place in Elaric’s castle of ice, this next book sees the two go on an adventure across the kingdom, from the forests to the seas. It was perfect because I do think the story had outgrown the castle, so it was nice to see how Adara and Elaric interacted outside of their otherwise rigid environment.
There are some great sequences that showcase Adara’s ability to think on her feet and adapt to any situation, and it was fun to watch her continue to grow. She really gives their adventure her all, even if it could end up poorly in the end.
Once the door opens on Adara and Elaric’s relationship, nothing can stop them (even though it takes a hot second for them to be on the same page). Though it started on rocky ground, by the end, they are in a great place and I’m so glad they made it there.
Heart of the Summer Queen is available now on KU! Thank you to the author for a chance to ARC read.
February 17, 2024
first was better but this was still good
So I loved the first book but this was still a good book. The spice was nice until it wasn’t and it just became pages worth of spice with very little plot. for a duology I might have left out some spice to keep the plot moving sometimes less is more. The dialogue at times felt a little off and the constant ragged breaths threw me off. Just felt like a lot of descriptions of breathing and touching where it felt like sensory overload and the friendship between the main character and the maids didn’t feel as rich as I had hoped. I know they’re servants but she sees them as friends yet it never feels like a friendship has developed. Good parts I liked was the world building.
Possible spoiler??
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The ending reads exactly like beauty and beast enough so that I actually skimmed a lot of it because in my head I just saw Belle and the beast for his transformation. So after waiting awhile for book 2 it was okay and I’m happy it didn’t end on a cliffhanger. Also the challenge for them finding yet another poison plant was a bummer I was hoping it would be different. But the plot twist with the witch was nicely done I enjoyed that part.
So I loved the first book but this was still a good book. The spice was nice until it wasn’t and it just became pages worth of spice with very little plot. for a duology I might have left out some spice to keep the plot moving sometimes less is more. The dialogue at times felt a little off and the constant ragged breaths threw me off. Just felt like a lot of descriptions of breathing and touching where it felt like sensory overload and the friendship between the main character and the maids didn’t feel as rich as I had hoped. I know they’re servants but she sees them as friends yet it never feels like a friendship has developed. Good parts I liked was the world building.
Possible spoiler??
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The ending reads exactly like beauty and beast enough so that I actually skimmed a lot of it because in my head I just saw Belle and the beast for his transformation. So after waiting awhile for book 2 it was okay and I’m happy it didn’t end on a cliffhanger. Also the challenge for them finding yet another poison plant was a bummer I was hoping it would be different. But the plot twist with the witch was nicely done I enjoyed that part.
February 17, 2024
I loved Bride of the Winter King! I was so excited to get my hands on Heart of the Summer Queen and pick up on that cliffhanger!!
The story picks up in the same scene Novel #1. After 3 years of planning, she has finally done it. She tried to assassinate the King of Avella, the Winter King. She failed. The King now knows her true intentions as his bride and her reason for marrying him. Her plan is ruined and he cannot be killed. She will not avenge her sister the King took 3 years ago and she is likely next to be killed.
Unless… maybe Adara does not know everything… the King finally lets her in on his secrets. She finds out the truth behind her sister’s disappearance. Hope returns to Adara as she finds out the Winter King is actually cursed!! Her sister is alive and under a spell cast by a witch to curse the King and all near him until a Summer Queen rescues him from his curse.
Adara, the Queen of Avella and Elaric, the King of Avella set off on quite the adventure to break his curse, unfreeze their kingdom and bring her sister back from her frozen state.
❄️ Marriage of Convenience
❄️ Enemies to Lovers
❄️ Touch her and ☠️
❄️ 🔥🔥
❄️ Beauty and the Beast Inspired
❄️ Strong Stubborn FMC
The story picks up in the same scene Novel #1. After 3 years of planning, she has finally done it. She tried to assassinate the King of Avella, the Winter King. She failed. The King now knows her true intentions as his bride and her reason for marrying him. Her plan is ruined and he cannot be killed. She will not avenge her sister the King took 3 years ago and she is likely next to be killed.
Unless… maybe Adara does not know everything… the King finally lets her in on his secrets. She finds out the truth behind her sister’s disappearance. Hope returns to Adara as she finds out the Winter King is actually cursed!! Her sister is alive and under a spell cast by a witch to curse the King and all near him until a Summer Queen rescues him from his curse.
Adara, the Queen of Avella and Elaric, the King of Avella set off on quite the adventure to break his curse, unfreeze their kingdom and bring her sister back from her frozen state.
❄️ Marriage of Convenience
❄️ Enemies to Lovers
❄️ Touch her and ☠️
❄️ 🔥🔥
❄️ Beauty and the Beast Inspired
❄️ Strong Stubborn FMC
May 6, 2024
I decided to continue this duet to see if the unanswered questions I had from the first book were answered in this book.
I did prefer this to the first book and it was an improvement, all the questions I had were answered I think, but it was almost like night and day between the two instalments.
This book was much heavier on the tropes, action, world building and back story as well as romance which was welcomed as the first book had felt a bit light.
We had travelling, witches, sea monsters, poison plants, curses, one bed, some spice and was jam packed with stuff going on.
I think the first book maybe needed either more foreshadowing or more information sharing, the balance wasn’t quite right as this book felt quite full to the point of lots happening in quick succession and the other very light. A lot was explained away quite quickly in the next book and there was a bit of a 180 which was quite quick but I enjoyed the story anyway.
Overall though they were quick easy reads and glad I read them.
I did prefer this to the first book and it was an improvement, all the questions I had were answered I think, but it was almost like night and day between the two instalments.
This book was much heavier on the tropes, action, world building and back story as well as romance which was welcomed as the first book had felt a bit light.
We had travelling, witches, sea monsters, poison plants, curses, one bed, some spice and was jam packed with stuff going on.
I think the first book maybe needed either more foreshadowing or more information sharing, the balance wasn’t quite right as this book felt quite full to the point of lots happening in quick succession and the other very light. A lot was explained away quite quickly in the next book and there was a bit of a 180 which was quite quick but I enjoyed the story anyway.
Overall though they were quick easy reads and glad I read them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2024
Heart of the Summer Queen was such a good ending to this fantasy romance duology. I loved it. I loved being back in this world. I loved the Beauty and the Beast vibes. I loved it all. The author, Holly Rose, did such a good job with the writing. I couldn't put it down, my attention was easily held! I enjoyed being back with the characters, Adara and Elaric. It was nice to get to know them both better, but especially the Winter King himself. The enemies to lovers and slow burn aspects had me! It was so good. Another thing I particularly enjoyed was the journey this story took us on! It was nice to explore more of the world.
I'm sad that this was just a duology, I'd love for their story to continue on. However, for a duology, I do feel like it all wrapped up nicely. There's just one particular character that I'm left wondering about.
If you're a fan of fantasy romance and/or if this beautiful book sounds like something you'd enjoy, I recommend checking it out sometime!
I'm sad that this was just a duology, I'd love for their story to continue on. However, for a duology, I do feel like it all wrapped up nicely. There's just one particular character that I'm left wondering about.
If you're a fan of fantasy romance and/or if this beautiful book sounds like something you'd enjoy, I recommend checking it out sometime!
July 22, 2024
In 3 Words: Easy, Simplistic, Enjoyable
Fave Quote: How can such true love thrive in soil so toxic?
This sequel took me on a fun fantasy quest, but was a much easier to read alternative to epic fantasy. It was an enjoyable break from heavier, more complex narratives and I appreciated the change of pace. However, it did take me a short while to get into the book because the main couple refused to communicate properly. Adara was naive and Elaric wasn't correcting her beliefs. But the quest allowed them to grow and they resolved all their relationship issues before the end of the book. There were some amusing scenes between them, like Elaric offering his food to a hungry Adara
Fave Quote: How can such true love thrive in soil so toxic?
This sequel took me on a fun fantasy quest, but was a much easier to read alternative to epic fantasy. It was an enjoyable break from heavier, more complex narratives and I appreciated the change of pace. However, it did take me a short while to get into the book because the main couple refused to communicate properly. Adara was naive and Elaric wasn't correcting her beliefs. But the quest allowed them to grow and they resolved all their relationship issues before the end of the book. There were some amusing scenes between them, like Elaric offering his food to a hungry Adara
January 30, 2025
I'm only 70 pages in so far and I had to start my review before I forget some things.
July 29, 2025
A fitting end to the duo
I adored the conclusion to this series.
The adventure continues as Adara and Elaric pickup right where we left off in the previous book.
I enjoyed reading how Adara started to change her perception of Elaric as the chapters progressed. We learnt a lot of Elaric’s backstory in this book, what shaped him into the being Adara knows. Have to say I think Elaric is somewhat of a complete sweetheart. His determination to put Adara’s needs above his own, even to his own detriment is swoonworthy.
“Even if I have you like this, every day for the rest of my life, it would never be enough.”
Adara’s journey into her own self discovery was a joy to read. Her resilience and was key to the plot which was full of twists and turns.
I throughly enjoyed this conclusion and highly recommend a ready
I adored the conclusion to this series.
The adventure continues as Adara and Elaric pickup right where we left off in the previous book.
I enjoyed reading how Adara started to change her perception of Elaric as the chapters progressed. We learnt a lot of Elaric’s backstory in this book, what shaped him into the being Adara knows. Have to say I think Elaric is somewhat of a complete sweetheart. His determination to put Adara’s needs above his own, even to his own detriment is swoonworthy.
“Even if I have you like this, every day for the rest of my life, it would never be enough.”
Adara’s journey into her own self discovery was a joy to read. Her resilience and was key to the plot which was full of twists and turns.
I throughly enjoyed this conclusion and highly recommend a ready
February 15, 2024
I'm so honored to be blessed with this amazing arc that Holly Rose sent me.
okay where do i start? the story picks up immediately after the first book and it gets you hooked instantly, the characters are amazing and so well written. The king is not just some shallow character but you immediately start to sympathize with him and his past. The plot twist caught me off guard, this book also managed to make me giggle and cry and kick my feet like i'm back high school. this is also the first ebook i annotated with is saying something. if you can't find the book at your bookstores download it on kindle because this will take you on such a fun and unforgettable ride man.
Again special thanks to Holly rose for this amazing honor to read this amazing arc
okay where do i start? the story picks up immediately after the first book and it gets you hooked instantly, the characters are amazing and so well written. The king is not just some shallow character but you immediately start to sympathize with him and his past. The plot twist caught me off guard, this book also managed to make me giggle and cry and kick my feet like i'm back high school. this is also the first ebook i annotated with is saying something. if you can't find the book at your bookstores download it on kindle because this will take you on such a fun and unforgettable ride man.
Again special thanks to Holly rose for this amazing honor to read this amazing arc
March 18, 2024
3.5/5 - I almost didn't read this book as I wasn't a huge fan of the first book but I'm so glad I did end up reading this! This book is a complete 180 from the first one in terms of plot and action. A lot of things happen and the two main characters really get to know each other very well. There's a huge portion of the book where it's just the two of them together (one of my favorite things) and the tension, yearning, and banter between the two of them was such a delight. I did feel like the ending came on rather quick and I was worried this was going to need a third book but I'm happy with where this left off and the author did leave an open door for an additional book if she wanted to continue the series.
February 17, 2024
What a lovely finish to this duology!
After the huge cliffhanger from the first book, this took off right where we ended. It was interesting to see them become enemies again and see their path to each other again.
This had beauty and the beast vibes, and felt like a cozy fantasy romance of sorts, just because of how lovely the writing was. None of the stakes felt too high, even though the MCs went through some ordeals on their way to the end.
It was a beautiful story and I enjoyed that Elaric and Adara kept going on their journey instead of going back home to regroup after each new piece to the puzzle.
Decently quick read, enjoyable story, lovely ending!
After the huge cliffhanger from the first book, this took off right where we ended. It was interesting to see them become enemies again and see their path to each other again.
This had beauty and the beast vibes, and felt like a cozy fantasy romance of sorts, just because of how lovely the writing was. None of the stakes felt too high, even though the MCs went through some ordeals on their way to the end.
It was a beautiful story and I enjoyed that Elaric and Adara kept going on their journey instead of going back home to regroup after each new piece to the puzzle.
Decently quick read, enjoyable story, lovely ending!
February 19, 2024
I was so excited to read this. This is a wonderful conclusion to this series. This picks up right after the events of Bride of the Winter King.
Adara and Elaric’s marriage is doomed to fail at the beginning due to the ending of book one. Their relationship does mend over the course of the book while they’re traveling to free Elaric from his curse. The ending was satisfying and loved the beauty and the beast vibes we got.
I’m excited to see what Holly will write next! I highly recommend checking this series out. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Adara and Elaric’s marriage is doomed to fail at the beginning due to the ending of book one. Their relationship does mend over the course of the book while they’re traveling to free Elaric from his curse. The ending was satisfying and loved the beauty and the beast vibes we got.
I’m excited to see what Holly will write next! I highly recommend checking this series out. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 1, 2024
This duology is romantasy perfection! This picks up right where book 1 ended. Adara realizes nothing is as she assumed and quickly starts to piece together the mystery of Elaric, The Winter King. Yes, there is the miscommunication trope, but for a completely acceptable reason. Adara is brave, cunning, fearless and unlike any other queen! She is relentless in pursuit of the truth and in the salvation of everyone. And Elaric? You can't help but feel for him. We get his backstory in this book. Their story gave me all The Beauty and the Beast vibes, whereas you fall in love with them falling in love with each other! Ahhh, I loved it so much!!
February 16, 2024
This takes place right after the first book after Adara’s failed assassination attempt. The Winter King is keeping her alive still, and now all Adara wants it to escape. Which she tries, and fails and then the Winter King reveals a truth to her that causes Adara to look at the Winter King and everything that had happened in a new light.
I really enjoyed the first book, especially since it had Beauty and the Beast vibes, but I have to say, the sequel I enjoyed more than the first book!
I won’t spoil anything, but I loved how much Adara grew in the sequel, Adara grew and changed a lot in the second book! Especially after how the previous book ended 😏
But the relationship between Adara and Elaric was one of those tension filled frustrating slow burn enemies to lovers romances that you just wonder “will they, or won’t they!?”, and I loved every moment of it!
We also got to see so much more of the world and the adventure that came with this sequel was unexpected and I loved every moment and I hope we get more books from this world!
I highly recommend this duology! I received a free digital copy to read. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed the first book, especially since it had Beauty and the Beast vibes, but I have to say, the sequel I enjoyed more than the first book!
I won’t spoil anything, but I loved how much Adara grew in the sequel, Adara grew and changed a lot in the second book! Especially after how the previous book ended 😏
But the relationship between Adara and Elaric was one of those tension filled frustrating slow burn enemies to lovers romances that you just wonder “will they, or won’t they!?”, and I loved every moment of it!
We also got to see so much more of the world and the adventure that came with this sequel was unexpected and I loved every moment and I hope we get more books from this world!
I highly recommend this duology! I received a free digital copy to read. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 1, 2024
This story fulfilled my inner childhood fairytale. I was here for the true love kiss. That was the best part my inner child was screaming with happiness. This is book 2, which does follow the same character from book one. Its starts right where the first book left off. This is the last book. In this one all the secrets are revealed and the whole story unfolds. I pre ordered this book because, I was just super excited for the release. Especially because, book one left me on a cliff hanger and I was dying to continue the story. I loved the story. I couldn’t put the book down. It was deliciously good and I definitely recommend. If you like fairytales with enemies to lovers, cursed prince, dragons, witches, adventures, spice and so much more than this book will be up your alley.
March 31, 2024
I originally really liked the first book, but then I read it again before reading this one and it was only meh (3,5 stars). This book felt a little rushed towards the end, like there was so much happening and you couldn't really follow everything. The end also became kinda predictable and a little anticlimactic. Also the longer I read the more I disliked Adara, because she was holding a grudge for far too long. In the end only two stars worthy for me, because the storyline felt forced and rushed and it just wasn't as good as the first book in the series.
January 5, 2025
A Beautiful ending
3.5 Stars on the high side. I was excited for this book it picks up right where we left off. Our fierce Adara has finally taken the time to breathe and take a step back to look at the bigger picture. I was too up until about 50 % I started having problems staying in it, i just didn’t care much for the journey they were on. I took a bit of a break and then the book picked back up for me around 75% and I actually got all emotional at choked up at the end. All I all it was a good series.
3.5 Stars on the high side. I was excited for this book it picks up right where we left off. Our fierce Adara has finally taken the time to breathe and take a step back to look at the bigger picture. I was too up until about 50 % I started having problems staying in it, i just didn’t care much for the journey they were on. I took a bit of a break and then the book picked back up for me around 75% and I actually got all emotional at choked up at the end. All I all it was a good series.
February 5, 2024
🏵Heart of the Summer Queen by @hollyrosebooks
Sequel to Bride of the Winter King
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
🦄🦄
Elaric Elaric Elaric 🥰🫠🥵
I cant say much so I don't give things away but this was a fast paced, spicy, fantasy adventure that meets all of our grown up Disney needs.
If you hadn't gathered I LOVE Elaric.
This man.
With everything he's been through he's still so sweet.
When he's not being sweet he's SPICY 🥵
DEFINITELY worth the
Sequel to Bride of the Winter King
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
🦄🦄
Elaric Elaric Elaric 🥰🫠🥵
I cant say much so I don't give things away but this was a fast paced, spicy, fantasy adventure that meets all of our grown up Disney needs.
If you hadn't gathered I LOVE Elaric.
This man.
With everything he's been through he's still so sweet.
When he's not being sweet he's SPICY 🥵
DEFINITELY worth the
February 21, 2024
I purchased Bride of the Winter King with my own money, and was kindly gifted an advanced copy of Heart of the Summer Queen for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Bride of the Winter King and Heart of the Summer Queen is a beautiful adult fantasy romance duology.
The story of Adara and Elaric is a Beauty and the Beast retelling, but with so much more.
In BOtWK, we meet Adara, who is planning a revenge plot against the fearsome Winter King. For many years he has stolen brides from Adara’s home, including her sister. She plans to become his next bride, gain his love and trust and then destroy his empire from within.
Adara is a strong and determined heroine, with a passion for her cause, but a willingness to learn and adapt.
As she infiltrates the Winter Kings realm, and learns more about our King, Elaric, she absorbs all this information and it shapes her plan.
Holly Rose’s world building and characters really draw you in, and I sped through book one, loving every side character, every twist and turn.
Our Winter King Elaric is a fascinating morally grey main character and the cliffhanger at the end made for the longest wait for book 2.
I was lucky enough to receive a free advanced eARC for Heart of the Summer Queen, and dove straight back into Holly Rose’s magical world. It picks up the day after the end of book one and I devoured all 334 pages in one sitting.
The pacing of this sequel is perfect, as is the character development. From page one we see them both grow and adapt. We learn so much more about Elaric, his life, his world and his curse.
I don’t want to spoil your reading of this duology, so let’s just say I loved book 2 even more than book one. It was the perfect conclusion to a really well written Beauty and the Beast adaptation, fresh and mysterious but still the fairytale we know and love.
Bride of the Winter King and Heart of the Summer Queen is a beautiful adult fantasy romance duology.
The story of Adara and Elaric is a Beauty and the Beast retelling, but with so much more.
In BOtWK, we meet Adara, who is planning a revenge plot against the fearsome Winter King. For many years he has stolen brides from Adara’s home, including her sister. She plans to become his next bride, gain his love and trust and then destroy his empire from within.
Adara is a strong and determined heroine, with a passion for her cause, but a willingness to learn and adapt.
As she infiltrates the Winter Kings realm, and learns more about our King, Elaric, she absorbs all this information and it shapes her plan.
Holly Rose’s world building and characters really draw you in, and I sped through book one, loving every side character, every twist and turn.
Our Winter King Elaric is a fascinating morally grey main character and the cliffhanger at the end made for the longest wait for book 2.
I was lucky enough to receive a free advanced eARC for Heart of the Summer Queen, and dove straight back into Holly Rose’s magical world. It picks up the day after the end of book one and I devoured all 334 pages in one sitting.
The pacing of this sequel is perfect, as is the character development. From page one we see them both grow and adapt. We learn so much more about Elaric, his life, his world and his curse.
I don’t want to spoil your reading of this duology, so let’s just say I loved book 2 even more than book one. It was the perfect conclusion to a really well written Beauty and the Beast adaptation, fresh and mysterious but still the fairytale we know and love.
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